A deadly tanker explosion shook Dan Magaji, Zaria, Kaduna State, on Monday morning, leaving several people dead and others injured.
The tragedy struck at about 8:30 am near Rochas Foundation School, along the Kaduna–Kano expressway bypass between Kwangila and Dan Magaji. Witnesses said the highway became a scene of chaos and fire.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported that two fuel-laden tankers collided with two passenger-loaded Golf cars. The impact unleashed five thunderous blasts, with flames and thick black smoke rising high into the air.
“All the occupants of the cars died on the spot, except one driver who survived but sustained severe burns,” an eyewitness told Makama.
Those nearby fled in panic as heat from the fire scorched surrounding areas. Vehicles lined up for kilometres as traffic grounded to a halt.
Rescue Efforts and Traffic Diversion
Emergency teams, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, firefighters, and police, rushed to the scene. They battled the fire and kept people away from danger.
Security officers blocked the stretch of road, advising motorists to find alternative routes. Some travellers were forced to wait for hours before the bypass was partially cleared.
Fuel tanker accidents remain a deadly risk on Nigerian highways. According to Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, hundreds of such crashes occur yearly, often causing large-scale loss of lives and property.
Local residents said the repeated explosions rattled buildings as far as one kilometre away. Several people gathered to pray for the victims, while others called for stricter safety checks on fuel tankers.
In saner climes, combustibles like petrol are mostly transported by underground pipes or trains. This accident is one too many and has renewed public questions about whether more should be done to enforce safer driving and stricter inspection standards for heavy-duty vehicles. What do you think should be done to avert another occurrence in the future?Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
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